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25 Sept 2025
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25 Sept 2025
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Pictured Liam Farrell.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan has said he will meet with the family of Liam Farrell to discuss concerns about the investigation into his death.
In the Dáil yesterday, the issue was raised by Sligo-Leitrim TD Martin Kenny, who asked Minister O’Callaghan if he would meet with the Farrell family and ensure that a proper investigation is carried out. Minister O’Callaghan replied that he has no problem meeting the family.
A recent Prime Time Investigates programme also highlighted concerns that the Farrell family have about how the Garda investigation was conducted following Mr Farrell’s death five years ago.
The 87-year-old was found dead at the back door of his home in Rooskey on January 11th, 2020, after an evening socialising in the village. His body was discovered bruised, with his shoes removed and his wallet missing.
READ MORE: ‘Second class citizens’: Senator demands action on MS services in Leitrim and Sligo
An initial post-mortem ruled the cause of death a heart attack; however, his family firmly believe the evidence suggests that he was attacked.
An inquest into his death returned an open verdict, meaning there was insufficient evidence to conclude how the death occurred.
Deputy Kenny said: “My colleague Matt Carthy and I this morning met with Brendan and Bernie Farrell, Liam’s son and daughter-in-law, where we heard first-hand how they found Liam’s body outside his home in Rooskey.”
“The investigation An Garda Síochána carried out was completely inadequate,“ said Deputy Kenny.
“They provided us with details of what they believe were failures by the Gardaí to conduct a proper investigation into their father’s death. This includes failing to properly seal off the crime scene and to ensure that a forensic post-mortem was conducted.”
According to Deputy Kenny, the minister met briefly with members of the Farrell family and agreed to hold a more formal meeting in the coming weeks.
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